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Ben Shelton Triumphs Over Top Seed Fritz for Dallas Open Title

2/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ben Shelton, the No. 2 seed, defeated Taylor Fritz, the top seed, 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 to win the 2026 Nexo Dallas Open, saving three match points in the deciding set.
The victory marks Shelton's fourth ATP title and his first of the year.
Shelton recovered after losing the first set by employing aggressive net play and powerful serves to secure the win.

History

Historical Context

Founded in 1973, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) transformed men's professional tennis, establishing a competitive framework that nurtured champions. Ben Shelton's recent victory at the 2026 Nexo Dallas Open, where he saved three championship points against Taylor Fritz, exemplifies this evolution. His win marks his fourth ATP title, underscoring the dynamic talent emerging in the sport today.

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Story summary

Ben Shelton, the No. 2 seed, defeated Taylor Fritz, the top seed, 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 to win the 2026 Nexo Dallas Open, saving three match points in the deciding set.
The victory marks Shelton's fourth ATP title and his first of the year.
Shelton recovered after losing the first set by employing aggressive net play and powerful serves to secure the win.

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